Constitutional Review Reignites Debate on State Police and Regional Restructuring

Nigeria’s constitutional review has intensified calls for reforms aimed at reshaping the country’s governance structure, with legal experts, civil society groups and pro-democracy advocates urging lawmakers to go beyond security reforms and strengthen true federalism.

During public hearings organized by the National Assembly, stakeholders called for greater devolution of powers to sub-national governments, arguing that Nigeria’s highly centralized system has weakened governance, slowed development and left states heavily dependent on federal allocations.

Many advocates are proposing a return to the regional federal structure of the First Republic, saying it would give regions greater control over resources, reduce the cost of governance and allow policies to better reflect local economic and cultural realities.

The debate comes as the National Assembly advances the Constitution Alteration Bill seeking to establish state police alongside the Nigeria Police Force. The proposal would allow states to operate their own police services while the federal police retain responsibility for national security and interstate crimes.

Under the bill, governors would appoint Commissioners of Police from candidates recommended by the National Police Council, subject to confirmation by the State House of Assembly. The legislation also provides for State Police Service Commissions to oversee recruitment, promotions and discipline, while allowing commissioners to challenge unlawful directives through the National Police Council.

Supporters, including the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, say decentralized policing would improve intelligence gathering, strengthen community security and reduce response times. They also argue that Nigeria’s current police-to-population ratio is insufficient to meet the country’s growing security needs.

Critics, however, warn that state police could be abused for political purposes and question whether some states can sustain the financial demands of running independent police services. Proponents maintain that constitutional safeguards and federal oversight would help prevent misuse.

The proposed amendment has been transmitted to the 36 State Houses of Assembly, where it must secure approval from at least 24 states before returning to the National Assembly and the President for final approval.